1/72 Dragon EA-18G Growler 

by Burt Gustafson

--------------------

 

This is my first submission to ARC, Dragon's 1/72 scale EA-18G Growler.  The kit consists of a Hasegawa F/A-18F Super Hornet with Hasegawa instructions and decals.  Dragon provided several sprues for the jamming pods and HARM missiles, along with decals for the Growler.

The model depicts the second prototype of the Growler.  The first prototype had green trim.  Since it is a prototype, there are no markings for a squadron or carrier.

Click on images below to see larger images

  

The EA-18G Growler has been accepted by the Navy and will replace the 40 year old EA-6B Prowler. The function of the Growler is to serve as a protective umbrella for Wild Weasel aircraft, such as F-16CJs and fleet units, jamming hostile radars and or communications.

Built off the existing F/A-18 Super Hornet, the Growler can keep up with strike aircraft, where as the Prowler could not.  Most of the Growlers hardpoints are packed with updated jamming pods from the EA-6B Prowler.

If you are an enemy SAM site operator and the Growler finds you in its clutches, it will use an arsenel of state-of-the-art EW systems to jam your radars, supress your defenses, and cause general havoc. Best not to turn on your radars and just go home.

Burt

Photos and text © by Burt Gustafson